Commissioner Moran was nominated to serve as a Commissioner of the Federal Maritime Commission on October 15, 1998, and confirmed by the United States Senate on October 21, 1998. He was sworn in on October 27, 1998.

Chairman Creel noted that Commissioner Moran came to the Commission just thirteen days after the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 ("OSRA") was signed into law and that Commissioner Moran's experience in congressional and legislative affairs, specifically in the area of maritime transportation policy and legislation, contributed to the Commission's successful implementation of OSRA. Chairman Creel, who also worked with Commissioner Moran when they both served as Counsel to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, stated:

"I have had the pleasure of working with John in one capacity or another for over twelve years. He is extremely knowledgeable of issues concerning U.S. waterborne commerce. His contributions to the Commission will be greatly missed. I wish him well in his next endeavor."

Before serving at the Federal Maritime Commission, Commissioner Moran served as Vice President - Legislative Affairs for the American Waterways Operators. Prior to that position, he was a partner at the government and public affairs firm of Alcalde & Fay, where he represented a number of clients on legislative initiatives. Before working with the Senate Commerce Committee, he held a number of staff positions on the Hill.

Commissioner Moran will continue his work on maritime and other transportation matters as part of the government relations and lobbying practice of the Washington, D.C. office of the law firm of Jones Walker.